American University of Sharjah (AUS) has officially opened its newly renovated Student Centre. The centre, inaugurated by AUS President, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi aims to foster innovation, wellness, and entrepreneurship among students and alumni.
The reimagined space now hosts a variety of alumni-run businesses, primarily focusing on providing nutritious meal options.
Additions include Miramiah, wedallas, Allo Cairo, and Healthy Farm Eatery, alongside established brands like Filli Café and Thumbay Food Court.
“This Centre embodies the entrepreneurial spirit that defines AUS at every level,” Sheikha Bodour said.
“It’s a stimulating, mindful environment where students and alumni can gather, eat healthy food together, share their ideas and ambitions and take them forward. I’m very grateful to Al Rawabi Dairy and AUS alumnus Pallavi Dean, whose generous contributions made the vision of this facility a reality. Their support was instrumental in creating this vibrant space for our students and the wider university community,” she added.
Abdallah Sultan Al Owais, Founder and Chairman of Al Rawabi Dairy, said, “At Al Rawabi Dairy, we recognise the vital role national companies play in supporting educational institutions like American University of Sharjah, empowering future generations while introducing them to local products. Our contribution to the Student Centre aims to create a comfortable and inspiring space where students can connect, collaborate and innovate, enriching their university experience. This partnership reflects our deep commitment to fostering community development and advancing our national goals.”
“Designing the Student Centre was an opportunity to create an environment that encourages collaboration and creativity. We focused on incorporating flexible spaces that can easily adapt to different uses, from study sessions to social events. Being able to draw on my experiences as a former AUS student to shape a place that supports the needs of today’s students was a unique and fulfilling challenge,” said Pallavi Dean, Founder of Design By Roar.
The renovation aligns with broader trends in higher education, focusing on creating spaces that promote both academic success and overall well-being. Healthy Farm Eatery, led by Executive Chef Luka Cobre, offers meal plans tailored to students’ needs, emphasising locally sourced, nutritious ingredients.
The ceremony saw the attendance of Dr. Tod Laursen, Chancellor of AUS; Bedour Al Raqbani, Board of Trustees member; Dr. Abdullatif AlShamsi, Special Advisor to the President for Academic Affairs; Ali Al Suwaidi, Acting Vice Chancellor for Finance and Administration; Shaima Bin Taliah, Acting Vice Chancellor for Student Experience; Amina Abdulrahim, Executive Director of ICT and IT Security; Haifa Ismail, Director of Student Engagement and Leadership; Khalid Al Rumaithi, Director of Procurement and Logistics; Hayder Awni, Director of Project Management; and members of the wider AUS community.
The student center is also home to several alumni-run businesses including Miramiah, wedallas and Allo Cairo, Filli Cafe, Boba Bae Bubble Tea and more.
Akber Thumbay, an AUS alumnus and Board Member of Thumbay Group said, “It’s inspiring to witness AUS supporting initiatives that encourage healthy living and sustainable practices. Seeing my fellow alumni lead the charge in creating a wellness-focused campus through their entrepreneurial ventures makes me proud.”
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